The updated range of JCB 3CX backhoe loaders will arrive on South African shores this July, promising to build on the brand’s popularity with enhanced features aimed at delivering greater comfort, versatility and productivity, thereby reducing costs and increasing efficiency
Massyn Jansen Van Vuuren, Bell Equipment Sales Product Manager for JCB products, commented: “This new model range will replace the existing JCB 3CX Eco, 3DX and 3CX Global product line. The new cab makeover is the most noticeable change and is sure to impress. The striking new design uses high-quality molded plastics quality, and the pillars and roof are light gray to give a lighter, more spacious feel.
“Most importantly, the new cab places a strong focus on operator safety, comfort and ease of operation. For example, the loader lever has been simplified to operate like a wheel loader. The The 3CX range now has a single lever loader control incorporating an FNR directional switch so an operator can control the loader and transmission with one hand, plus there is a proportional switch next to the lever to operate the bucket 6 in 1, which further reduces the effort required to operate the machine.”
Improved functions
The new EasyShift transmission with “kick down” comes as standard across the range, simplifying gear changes with a rotation of the FNR directional lever next to the steering wheel. The downshift, located on the floor, allows operators to shift from second to first gear for more power while loading or working on site.”
“All cabs are ROPS/FOPS certified and the seat rotation area is larger to give more room for the operator, which together with improved cab sealing to prevent water and dust ingress , creates a cleaner and more pleasant work space. There is also improved visibility of the work area behind the machine,” commented Massyn.
In addition, the 3CX Plus model introduces a high-performance HVAC air conditioning system with 21 adjustable air outlets strategically placed around the front console, “B” pillar and the rear of the machine, optimizing comfort and defogging performance. The 3CX comes with a standard B-pillar mounted fan.
Under the hood, the JCB 3CX range benefits from improved hydraulic efficiency thanks to new variable displacement piston pumps standard on all models. The larger pump delivers 150 lpm, a 39% increase over the previous model, which allows for reduced engine speed while maintaining productivity, effectively reducing fuel consumption. In addition, the variable flow pump operates on demand, reducing engine load and further improving fuel efficiency.
Plus and Pro models feature a standard Smooth Ride system for improved road handling and can be equipped with a versatile 6-in-1 shovel, optionally equipped with folding forks for increased functionality. “The 6-in-1 shovel can be used for sleeping, loading, digging, grabbing, spreading and leveling, while the optional folding forks are ideal for machines that will double as a forklift for pick-up and drop-off activities. around the workplace and to unload vehicles”, he added.
Lighting has been improved with six LED work lights replacing halogen lights. Adjustable front LEDs and rear LEDs, two of which are adjustable, improve nighttime visibility. A “guide me home” light system keeps the work lights on for 30 seconds after the ignition is turned off, aiding in safe exit from the machine and job site during night operations.
Other standard features include an in-cab boom lock, front and rear washer/wiper functions, Return To Dig function, electronic throttle control, Bluetooth radio and USB ports, front and side LCD display, adjustable steering column and a battery isolator key for electrical isolation during maintenance.
“As a whole, the new 3CX range has a machine to suit every requirement and we hope these new machines will bring real value and strengthen JCB’s position as the world’s leading backhoe brand. We have a fleet of units that will be used worldwide. the country to familiarize customers with the new range and improvements, so we encourage customers to contact their nearest Bell dealer and experience the machines for themselves,” concluded Massyn.
